WAFCON 2026: Nigerian federation backs Super Falcons to rise again after Malawi setback

Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Executive Committee Member Aisha Falode has rallied behind the Super Falcons following their shock defeat to Malawi at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, insisting the team has the quality and experience to bounce back.

The nine-time African champions suffered a surprise 3-2 loss to Malawi in their opening Group C fixture in Morocco, a result that raised concerns over their pursuit of a record-extending 11th WAFCON title.

However, Falode believes the defeat is only a temporary setback and should not erase the team’s remarkable history of success, resilience and dominance in African women’s football.

In a statement released on Thursday, she called on Nigerians to continue supporting the team as they fight to recover and secure their objectives, including qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

‘No one hurts more than the players’

Falode acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the result against Malawi but stressed that the players and technical team were the most affected by the outcome.

She said the responsibility of representing Nigeria comes with immense pressure, adding that the Super Falcons understand the expectations placed on them whenever they step onto the pitch.

“The Super Falcons have earned the trust, admiration and unwavering respect of Nigerians through decades of excellence, resilience and an enduring commitment to our nation’s colours,” she said.

The NFF official insisted that one defeat cannot define a team that has consistently set the benchmark for women’s football on the continent.

Nigeria have won 10 of the 13 previous editions of WAFCON and entered the tournament as defending champions after defeating hosts Morocco in the 2022 final.

Falode urges Nigerians to keep believing

Despite the setback, Falode maintained that the Falcons remain focused on their ambitions in Morocco and have the ability to respond strongly in their remaining matches.

She described challenges as part of the journey for every successful team and pointed to Nigeria’s history of overcoming difficult moments as evidence that the current squad can recover.

According to her, the players need encouragement rather than criticism as they attempt to restore their campaign.

“Our players need to know that the nation still believes in them because genuine support is never reserved only for moments of victory,” she said.

Falode also reminded the squad of the wider significance of their role, highlighting the millions of young girls across Nigeria who look up to the Super Falcons as symbols of possibility and inspiration.

She urged the players to remain courageous, disciplined and united as they chase another major achievement for the country.

‘The Super Falcons can do it again’

With crucial group matches ahead, Falode expressed confidence that Nigeria’s experience, talent and winning mentality will help them navigate the challenge.

She believes the team still has what it takes to reclaim the continental crown and add another chapter to Nigeria’s decorated women’s football history.

“The Super Falcons can do it again,” she said, reaffirming her faith in the squad’s ability to recover from adversity.

Nigeria will now look to respond in their upcoming fixtures as they fight to avoid an early exit and keep their hopes of lifting a record 11th WAFCON trophy alive.